UP Govt Launches Joint Action Plan To Rejuvenate Rivers Across State

Lucknow: In a major initiative aimed at reviving the rivers of Uttar Pradesh, the Yogi Adityanath-led government has rolled out a comprehensive, district-level joint action plan. Under this plan, every river in the state will be mapped from its origin to its final confluence, and all districts along its course will be made jointly responsible for its rejuvenation.

The government’s approach marks a shift from fragmented efforts to a coordinated model that focuses not only on restoring river flow but also on improving water quality, ensuring year-round water availability, and preserving aquatic biodiversity. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed all departments and district administrations to take necessary action and prepare coordinated plans for their respective river stretches.

Multi-Dimensional River Rejuvenation Model

Key interventions under this strategy include desiltation, river channelization, and course correction to ensure smoother flow. Districts will also be required to clear encroachments along riverbanks and undertake large-scale afforestation drives to strengthen river ecosystems.

The plan also emphasizes the conservation of traditional water bodies such as ponds and stepwells, particularly those that are part of the river's hydrological network. Restoration of such structures, construction of check dams, water harvesting units in catchment areas, and biodiversity-friendly infrastructure like recharge pits will be integral to the strategy.

“This initiative is not just about water bodies—it’s about reviving our natural heritage,” a senior official said. “Uttar Pradesh’s rivers will be treated as ‘living heritage’ assets that must be preserved for future generations.”

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Rivers as shared responsibility across districts

The plan recognizes that rivers are not confined to one administrative unit. For instance, a river flowing through multiple districts will require all those districts to contribute to its rejuvenation. Each district will develop micro-level plans addressing waste management, ecological restoration, water source protection, and catchment strengthening within its jurisdiction.

The joint action plan will be prepared at the district level with inter-departmental coordination. Technical support will be provided for activities like silt removal, course correction, and the construction of water conservation structures. Local communities, panchayats, and environmental experts will also be engaged to ensure sustainable outcomes.

River Mapping from Source to Confluence

All rivers in the state will be scientifically mapped from their origin to their confluence. Administrative units will be tasked with identifying pollution points, stretches vulnerable to encroachment, and potential sites for water harvesting and plantation. Planting native trees along the riverbanks will not only prevent soil erosion but also help maintain microclimates, support wildlife, and improve groundwater recharge.

The policy aligns with the goals of national campaigns like Jal Jeevan Mission and Namami Gange. Officials say the long-term vision is to maintain perennial flow in rivers, stabilize groundwater levels, enhance rural livelihoods, and improve agricultural and animal husbandry outcomes through better water security.

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A Model for Other States

The Yogi government’s river rejuvenation initiative is being seen as a model that could inspire other Indian states grappling with water scarcity, declining river health, and environmental degradation. With coordinated governance and local participation at its core, the plan could mark a turning point in how Indian rivers are managed—not as drainage systems but as vital lifelines of the ecosystem and economy.